The Israel-Palestine conflict prompted footballers to show solidarity with victims. Distinguishing between solidarity and glorification is crucial. Granada striker Shon Weissman faced controversy for the latter, emphasizing the delicate balance players must maintain amid such crises.
Many players, including Liverpool star Mohamed Salah who urged for help to be allowed to enter Gaza to end the ‘conflict’ in the Palestine-Israel war. Recently, several clubs have taken action against players for commenting on the situation.
Shon Weissman reportedly removed from Granada squad
The Israeli international striker, Shon Weissman, who plays for La Liga side Granada, has been excluded from the traveling squad to Pamplona for their weekend fixture against Osasuna due to a controversial social media post.
Granada have been advised by the Local police and Spanish security authority to not include the striker in their traveling squad due to security concerns. The 27-year-old has suffered backlash for the post that he has already deleted due to its unfortunate nature of relating it to the ongoing war in the Gaza-Israel region.
The Granada head coach, Paco Lopez, acknowledged that the situation has caused trouble for Shon Weissman due to his social media activity. The club has agreed to the advice, and the Israeli striker’s safety has been prioritised for the time being.
Coach Paco Lopez said, “It’s a delicate topic. I’m against any war, regardless of the parties involved. He’s been affected. Training has been an escape valve for him, and he’s training very well”, addressing the situation.
Weissman was training with those players who were not called up for international duty during the international break, as Israel’s EURO qualifiers have been postponed by UEFA due to the current circumstances.
Shon Weissman was reportedly arrested for sharing hateful post
Shon Weissman’s social media activity has sparked controversy and unrest among their own supporters. It is reported that the striker had liked various posts containing provocative remarks such as “Drop 200-ton Bombs on it” and “Erase Gaza,” referring to the recent attacks.
The local Palestinian residents have filed a formal complaint against the striker with the local prosecutor for instigating violence online and charged him with hate crimes.
However, there is no official confirmation of his arrest; reportedly, he is suspended as of now. The Granada supporters have also condemned his actions; moreover, they have demanded the release of the Israeli striker from the team.
